Walk into almost any kitchen and you’ll probably find a forgotten can of soup, beans, or vegetables tucked away in the back of the pantry. When people spot a date that’s already passed, the automatic reaction is often to throw it away.
But is that necessary? In many cases, the answer is no.
What Do the Dates on Cans Actually Mean?
One of the biggest misconceptions about canned food is that the printed date is a strict safety deadline. Most of the time, it isn’t.
“Best By” or “Best Before”
These dates indicate when the manufacturer believes the food will have the best flavor, texture, and overall quality. They are about freshness—not safety.
“Use By”
This label is more common on perishable foods such as dairy products or fresh meat. Even then, it often refers to peak quality rather than an exact point when the food suddenly becomes unsafe.
So if your canned soup or vegetables are past the printed date, there’s no need to panic. The food may still be perfectly safe to eat.
How Long Can Canned Foods Last?
